Chris Woakes

Chris Woakes became a popular name in England’s cricketing circuit way before he even made his First-Class debut. His consistency with pace and accuracy made many believe he was the next big thing in England cricket. Though Woakes had a decent start to his limited-overs career, bagging a 6-wicket-haul against Australia in his second ODI, he could not get the start he wanted in the longest format. His lean form led to his omission from the team. But he was added back after Ben Stokes got himself injured.

It was a lucky call-up for Woakes. He not only remained consistent with wickets in Tests, but also scored his maiden Test half-century. His unbeaten 95 in the opening revived England to end the match in a tie. The series brought a turnaround in Woakes’ career. He went on to register a record-breaking 11 for 102 against Pakistan, becoming the first Englishman after Ian Botham to bag fifer in each innings of a Test. He also continued his work in the English lower order batting.